RISKS & REWARDS: CAMPING

Camping on Your Grand Canyon River Adventure

Camping in Grand Canyon is likely unlike any other camping experience you’ve ever had! The Canyon’s constant and changing views can’t be beat. The usually mild weather, soft white sand, lack of mosquitoes and gorgeous night skies make camping outside of a tent a must-try, which may be a new experience for you. We’ll share delicious homemade meals enjoyed in the company of your fellow rafters. Although some may say the bathroom facilities leave a bit to be desired, you won’t find a bathroom with better views.

Whether you’re a first-time or experienced camper, here’s what you need to know:

There are always risks associated with outdoor adventures

The unique beauty of the Canyon camping environment can present challenging terrain, local and poisonous creepy crawlers, dangerous river currents, fluctuating river levels, rock slides, flash floods and variable weather conditions. While camping in Grand Canyon, injuries can range from stubbed toes and scrapes to illness, reactions to allergies or insect bites, being struck by or falling against rocks or sharp objects and more. Some camp locations are close to the river, so precautions need to be taken to avoid falling in.While most risks associated with camping are moderate, serious injury—including death—is always a risk in any backcountry camping experience.

Sometimes simple and easy tasks, like finding the bathroom facilities or filling water bottles after dark can be tough in a camping environment. There are lots of rocks and sand, sand and more sand, which presents its own array of challenges. Expect to carry your own personal gear and camp equipment, and set up your personal camp space. If you are able, assistance in unloading and reloading the rafts is a rewarding team effort.

“Camping can’t be THAT dangerous, can it?!”

There are always risks in the backcountry, but here is what we do to minimize these risks:

Our experienced guides will orient you to potential risks and provide instructions to help alleviate incidents. For example, we’ll explain the importance of always wearing shoes in camp, how to use the handwashing system to reduce the spread of germs, provide guidance on what is available in our first-aid kits and inform you of their locations. You will also receive instruction on proper gear handling and lifting techniques, the location of the camp toilet and bathroom etiquette. Keep your guides informed of any injuries, bites or allergic reactions, no matter how minor. The guides are always available if you have any questions or need assistance.

You also play an essential role in moderating risk. Here’s what you can do:

Read your pre-trip literature thoroughly

Notify us of all medical conditions, allergies, medications and physical limitations prior to the trip (and keep us informed as they change)

While you’re on the water, communicate any injuries, physical concerns, allergic reactions, illness or medical conditions to your guides as they arise

Pay close attention during your camp orientations

Be present and aware of your surroundings

Avoid over-indulging in alcohol

Use correct hand-washing procedures

Always wear shoes

Fill water bottles and locate the camp toilet before dark

Have a working flashlight/headlamp nearby after dark

Use proper lifting techniques while carrying cumbersome gear

Listen and follow the instructions of your guides

Speak with your physician and/or personal trainer for these camp activities: moving around on uneven terrain, assisting in helping unloading and reloading the rafts each day, as well as the cumulative effects and fatigue of being in the backcountry environment for multiple days.

Have your physician and/or personal trainer consider these strengths and exercises needed for a Grand Canyon rafting adventure: cardio pulmonary, endurance, balance, foot work and grip strength. Take this information with you when you speak with your physician and/or personal trainer.

When all is said and done, camping in Grand Canyon has many rewards!

You’ll likely find camping in the Grand Canyon will exceed your wildest expectations and be more rejuvenating than you thought possible. You’ll enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow campers, have quiet reflection time beside the river, marvel at the eons of years embedded in the Grand Canyon walls and observe the starriest night skies of your life. Savor your time there and fully enjoy camping at the bottom of the most astounding, or dare we say grandest, canyon in the world.

We’d love to chat with you!

If you have any questions or concerns, call our office anytime between Monday through Friday, 9-4 PM MST (AZ does not observe daylight savings time). We’re also available and happy to assist you via email. We hope to see you downstream!